Receiving broadcast signals using intelligent covers for mobile devices

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for receiving broadcast signals using intelligent covers. In some implementations, a cover for a consumer device includes side surfaces, a rear surface, a physical interface, a circuit, and a broadcast service card. The side surfaces and a rear surface form an opening that receives at least a portion of a consumer device. A first portion of at least one of the surfaces includes a connector for connecting to a port of the consumer device. The circuit connects the physical interface to the connector. The broadcast service card connects to the physical interface and receives broadcasted content independent of the consumer device.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application claims priority under 35 USC §119(e) to U.S. PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/971,813, filed on Sep. 12, 2007, the entirecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to network communications and, more particularly,to receiving broadcast signals using covers for mobile devices.

BACKGROUND

Portable electronic devices and tokens have become an integrated part ofthe regular day to day user experience. There is a wide variety ofcommon portable and handheld devices that users have in their possessionincluding communication, business and entertaining devices such as cellphones, music players, digital cameras, smart cards, memory token andvariety of possible combinations of the aforementioned devices andtokens. All of these devices share the commonality that consumer areaccustomed to carrying them with them most of the time and to mostplaces. This is true across the various demographics and age groupsregardless of the level of the sophistication of the consumer, their agegroup, their technical level or background.

These common handheld devices offer options for expandable memory. MicroSecure Digital (microSD) is the popular interface across high-endcellphones while SD and MultiMediaCard (MMC) interfaces are alsoavailable in limited models. MicroSD is the least common denominatorsupported by the majority of these devices and tokens (in terms ofsize). In addition, adaptors are available to convert a MicroSD intoMiniSD, SD, MMC and USB Although most popular MP3 player (iPOD) offer'sa proprietary interface, competing designs do offer standard interfaces.Digital cameras offer mostly SD and MMC while extreme Digital (xD) isanother option. Micro and Mini versions of these interfaces are alsoavailable in several models. Mini-USB is increasingly available acrosscellphones, digital cameras and MP3 players for synchronization withlaptops.

Various content providers and service providers are developing digitalbroadcast networks that will be able to provide TV like viewing channelson mobile devices. Several new mobile handset models are also beingdeveloped that embed a miniature broadcast receiver that can receivethese digital broadcast signals and use a media player software to offerchannel viewing to the consumer. In order to secure access and provideaccess to premium content like movies, subscription based pay-TV contentand music albums, the service provider uses a specially designedconditional access system (CAS) which is able to verify the user'ssubscription and unscramble premium content before rendering it forviewing.

Such capability can be added to the PC, by adding a hardware transceiverthat can be added to the PC using peripheral interfaces such as USB,PCMCIA, PCIA or mini-PCI (and others). To control access, theconditional access system is implemented in the same hardware andcomprises of a smart card that securely stores the user's identity andhis subscription privileges. In addition, the service provider providesan Electronic Service Guide that the user can use to select the channelsthat he wishes to view. This software is typically installed on the PCtogether with the access driver for the hardware. In some options, thedefault channel guide provided by the operating system of the PC (suchas Windows Vista/MacOS etc.) can be used.

There are other consumer devices such as smartphones, MP3 players, gameplayers and portable video players that may make use of broadcastcontent connection for useful applications. Since the hardware for thebroadcast receiver and the conditional access system is specialized andrequires a dedicated processor to receive and unscramble content, manyof these devices may not be upgraded with an embedded broadcastreception capability. In addition, these devices also lack PCMCIA or USBtype expansion slots where broadcast receiver and CAS hardware could beinserted. These devices also typically lack the slot for a hardwaresecurity token such as a smart card in order to provide secure access toa fee based premium TV content. These devices also need memory for theusers to record content captured through these devices. The need forsuch memory is growing at a rapid rate.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for receivingbroadcast signals using intelligent covers. In some implementations, acover for a consumer device includes side surfaces, a rear surface, aphysical interface, a circuit, and a broadcast service card. The sidesurfaces and a rear surface form an opening that receives at least aportion of a consumer device. A first portion of at least one of thesurfaces includes a connector for connecting to a port of the consumerdevice. The circuit connects the physical interface to the connector.The broadcast service card connects to the physical interface andreceives broadcasted content independent of the consumer device.

The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth inthe accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features,objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thedescription and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an example updating system in accordance with someimplementations of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 2A to 2C illustrate cross sectional views of some implementationsof the cover of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate example slots in the cover of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates an example converter module of the cover of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an example service system that transmits transactioninformation;

FIG. 6 is an example service card of FIG. 5 in accordance with someimplementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is an example Central Processing Unit (CPU) of the service cardof FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating personalization processes ofintelligent cards;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are flow charts illustrating an example method forinitialize an intelligent card;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for activating aservice card;

FIGS. 11A to 11C are examples of call flow illustrating call sessionswith an intelligent card;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for synchronizingESG data; and

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an method receiving selectedbroadcast content.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example system 100 foraugmenting a mobile device, for example an iPhone, with additionalexternal devices using a cover for the mobile device. For example, thesystem 100 may add an external microSecureDigital (microSD) slot to amobile host device, for example an iPhone, using a flexible cover thatencloses at least a portion of the mobile device and connects to a portof the mobile device. Aside from microSD, the system 100 may add anexternal memory device to a mobile device using other interfaces suchas, for example, MultiMediaCard (MMC), SD, miniSD, Firewire, and/orothers. By adding external devices (e.g., memory, transaction cards),the system 100 may upgrade a mobile device that does not includeexpansion slots with additional external devices while substantiallymaintaining the dimensions of the device. For example, the cover mayincrease the dimensions of the by 5 percent or less. In other words, thecover may add a device slots to a mobile device while substantiallymaintaining original attributes such as speaker outputs, network signalstrength, headphone jacks, battery charging, docking ports, and others.In some implementations, the system 100 may update mobile devices withexternal memory devices, transaction cards, and/or other devices. Forexample, the intelligent card may wirelessly execute transactions withdifferent enterprises using a single intelligent card and independent ofa mobile host device. In other words, a single intelligent card includedwith the cover may execute a payment transaction with a financialinstitution, an access control transaction with a enterprise network, aticket purchase transaction with a transit authority and/or an identityvalidation transaction with a government agency. In suchimplementations, each of the transactions can securely identify a userand user privileges with respect to the services being received from thedifferent enterprises. In doing so, the cover including the intelligentcard may operate as a logical wallet. In some of these implementations,the cover may include a circuit that converts signals between a formcompatible with an external memory device (e.g., microSD) and a formcompatible with the mobile device (e.g., USB). In addition, the system100 may include an intelligent card integrated into an the cover suchthat removable may at least partially damage the cover.

At a high level, the system 100 includes a cover 102, an external device104, a mobile device 106 and a network 108. The cover 102 including aslot 110 for connecting to the external device 104, a connector 112 forconnecting to the mobile device 106, and a circuit 114 for communicablyconnecting the slot 110, an antenna 115 for boosting transmission andreception of RF signals, and the connector 112. The cover 102 may updatethe mobile device 106 with an external device 104. In addition, thecover 102 encloses at least a portion of the mobile device 106. In thecase of enclosing a portion of the mobile device 106, the cover 102 mayinclude other aspects that expose ports of the mobile device 106 forconnecting with external peripherals such that the cover 102 does notsubstantially interfere with such connections. In other words, the cover102 may either include ports substantially aligned with ports of themobile device 106 or provide openings that allow substantiallyunrestricted access to the original ports of the device 106 (see FIG.2C). The mobile device 106 may be communicable coupled to the network108. The mobile device 106 includes a Graphical User Interface (GUI) 116for presenting information to and/or receiving information from users.

The cover 102 can include any software, hardware, and/or firmwareconfigured to update the mobile device 106 with one or more externaldevices slots. For example, the cover 102 may include a microSD slot anda physical interface for connecting to a port of the mobile device. Inthis example, the cover 102 may connect the microSD slot to the mobiledevice 106 using the physical interface. In some implementations, thecover 102 may include one or more of the following: one or more slotsfor external devices (e.g., memory, wireless transaction cards); one ormore connectors that connect to the mobile device 106; one or morecircuits for connecting the one or more slots to the one or moreconnectors; a conversion module that converts signals between differentformats; a biometric reader that determines biometric information of auser of the mobile device 106; and/or other elements. In someimplementations, the cover 102 may be formed of a flexible material suchas, for example, silicone rubber, a soft neoprene, and/or othermaterial. The opening formed by the cover 102 may be substantially bethe same as or less than the dimensions of the mobile device 106. In thecase of the opening dimensions being less, the cover 102 may be slightlyflexible to stretch over the mobile device 106. The cover 102 maysubstantially maintain attributes of the mobile device 106, such asdimensions, accessibility to peripherals as provided by the device,charging, battery life, signal strength, access to display and all otherinput devices, connectivity to the wireless network if any, interfacecapability to a PC if any and any other features provided by the device.In maintaining the attributes, the added functionality may not degradethe device performance in any manner such that certification byregulatory authorities (e.g., FCC) and warranty by the issuer of thedevice 106 is compromised.

In the illustrated implementation, the cover 102 includes the slot 110,the connector 112 and the circuit 114. The slot 110 may comprise an MMC,miniMMC, microMMC, SD, miniSD, microSD, and/or other slots. The slot 110may including an opening such that the external device 104 may beinserted after the mobile device 106 is inserted into the cover 102. Insome implementations, the slot 110 may be formed in the rear surfacesuch that cover 102 is removed or at least portion moved away from thesurface of the mobile device 106 to insert the external device 104. Insome implementations, the slot 110 and the external device 104 areintegrated into the cover 102, and in this case, the external device 104may not be removable without damaging the cover 102. The connector 112includes at least a portion that connects to a port of the mobile device106. The connector 112 may include a USB, iDock, microUSB, Firewire,Serial, and/or other connectors offered by the mobile device 106. Insome implementations, the connector 112 may include a first interfacefor connecting to the mobile device 106 and a second interface forconnecting with external devices. The second interface may besubstantially similar in dimensions and interface capabilities as theoriginal connector of the mobile device 106. In these instances, theconnector 112 may pass one or more signals from external devices to themobile device 106 without, for example, interfering with the connectingto the external device 104. For example, the connector 112 may include asecond interface that connects with the power supply of the mobiledevice 106 and passes the signal to the mobile device 106 for charging.The circuit 114 can include any software, hardware, and firmware forcommunicably connecting the slot 110 with the connector 112. Forexample, the circuit 114 may include one or more wired connectionsbetween the slot 110 and the connector 112. In addition, the circuit 114may also include a booster antenna that may enhance the signal receptioncapability of the mobile device 106 and/or the signal receptioncapability of any wireless transaction cards inserted into the slot 110(see FIG. 2A). In some implementations, the circuit 114 may execute oneor more of the following: pass signals between the slot 110 and theconnector 112; translated or otherwise convert signals between formscompatible with the external device 104 and forms compatible with themobile device 106; detect biometric information of a user of the mobiledevice 106; manage access to the external device 104 based, at least inpart, on detected biometric information; enhance signal reception of thehost device via an integrated booster antenna; enhance signal receptionof a wireless transaction card inserted into the slot; provide access tosoftware and system on the device inserted into the slot for anapplication residing on the mobile device; and/or other processes.

The external device 104 can include any software, hardware, and/orfirmware configured to update the mobile device 106 with one or morefeatures and/or functions. For example, the external device 104 mayinclude solid-state memory (e.g., flash, EEPROM) for storing informationreceived, for example, from the mobile device 106. The external device104 may update the mobile device 106 with, for example, external memory,a wireless transaction card, a broadcast receiver, a broadbandtransceiver, and/or other elements. In regards to memory, the externaldevice 104 may be a Flash or memory package, which is non-volatilememory that may be electrically erased and reprogrammed. The externaldevice 104 may be a memory card, USB Flash drives, and/or other memorydevice. For example, the external device 104 may include ElectricallyErasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) that is erased andprogrammed in blocks. In regards to memory cards, the external device104 may be MMC, microMMC, miniMMC, SD, microSD, miniSD, Memory Stick,Memory Stick Duo, xD-Picture Card, Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC),and/or other memory card. In some implementations, the external device104 may include a memory capacity between 1 MB and 1 TB. Alternativelyor in addition, the external device 104 may be a transaction card asdiscussed with respect to FIGS. 5 to 14. In these implementations, theexternal card 104 may wirelessly execute transactions with, for example,a point of sale device. In some implementations, the external card 104is integrated/embedded into the cover 102. The external card 104 maystore user credentials for a credit card, a debit card, a prepaid card,a gift card, a checking account, and/or other user accounts. Inaddition, the intelligent card may also store user credentials for otherapplications such as loyalty (points for purchase), airline (access toclubs, check-in), state (driving license), memberships (clubs) and/orothers where user credentials are used to identify user so that goodsand/or services can be provided. By storing multiple user credentials ina single external card 104, the system 100 may execute transactions withdifferent institutions without requiring multiple instruments, asdiscussed in more detail with respect to FIGS. 5-14.

The mobile device 106 comprises an electronic device operable tointerface with the cover 102 using one or more ports. For example, themobile device 106 may have an iDock port that connects with the cover102. As used in this disclosure, the mobile device 106 is intended toencompass cellular phones (e.g., iPhone), data phones, pagers, portablecomputers, SIP phones, smart phones, personal data assistants (PDAs),digital cameras, MP3 players, camcorders, one or more processors withinthese or other devices, or any other suitable processing devices capableof communicating information with the cover 102 through one or moreports and may not have otherwise have a slot for external card 104 couldbe directly plugged in. The one or more ports may include, for example,a USB port, an iDock port, a FireWire port, a serial port and/or anyother interface port provided by the mobile device for connectivity withperipherals, and/or other ports. In some implementations, the mobiledevices 106 may be based on broadcast radio technology. For example, themobile device 106 may be a PDA operable to wirelessly connect with anexternal or unsecured network. In another example, the mobile device 106may comprise a digital multimedia player that includes an input device,such as a keypad, a jog wheel, a jog dial, touch screen, or other devicethat can accept information or allows selection of user interfaceelements, and an output device that conveys information associated withthe system 100, including digital data, visual information, or GUI 116.

The GUI 116 comprises a graphical user interface operable to allow theuser of the mobile device 106 to interface with at least a portion ofthe system 100 for any suitable purpose, such as executing transactionsand/or and presenting transaction history. Generally, the GUI 116provides the particular user with an efficient and user-friendlypresentation of data provided by or communicated within the system 100and/or also an efficient and user-friendly means for the user toself-manage settings and access services offered by an institution. TheGUI 116 may comprise a plurality of customizable frames or views havinginteractive fields, pull-down lists, and/or buttons operated by theuser. The term graphical user interface may be used in the singular orin the plural to describe one or more graphical user interfaces and eachof the displays of a particular graphical user interface. The GUI 116can include any graphical user interface, such as a generic web browseror touch screen, that processes information in the system 100 andpresents the results to the user.

Network 108 facilitates wireless or wired communication betweeninstitutions and any other local or remote computer, such as the mobiledevice 106. Network 108 may be all or a portion of an enterprise orsecured network. While illustrated as single network, network 108 may bea continuous network logically divided into various sub-nets or virtualnetworks without departing from the scope of this disclosure, so long asat least a portion of network 108 may facilitate communications with themobile device 106. In some implementations, network 108 encompasses anyinternal or external network, networks, sub-network, or combinationthereof operable to facilitate communications between various computingcomponents in system 100. Network 108 may communicate, for example,Internet Protocol (IP) packets, Frame Relay frames, AsynchronousTransfer Mode (ATM) cells, voice, video, data, and other suitableinformation between network addresses. Network 108 may include one ormore local area networks (LANs), radio access networks (RANs),metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs), all or aportion of the global computer network known as the Internet, and/or anyother communication system or systems at one or more locations.

FIGS. 2A to 2C illustrate cross-sectional views of the cover 102 ofFIG. 1. In particular, the views illustrate the components of the cover102 that at least augment the mobile device 106 with the card 104. InFIG. 2A, the cover 102 includes a port-to-card converter module 202(e.g., USB-to-microSD), a reader 204, and an antenna 206. The convertermodule 202 can include any software, hardware, and/or firmware thatconverts between card-processable signals and signals compatible withthe mobile device 106. In the illustrated example, the converter module202 converts between SD signals and USB signals. The reader 204 caninclude any software, hardware, and/or firmware that verifies orotherwise determines user information such as biometric information. Inthe illustrated example, the reader 204 determines fingerprints of auser and may verify whether the user has access to the card 104. Inaddition, the reader 204 may pass the biometric information to anapplication on the mobile device 106 (through the converter 202 and/orthe connector) for, for example, to securely verify the identity of thedevice holder. The mobile host device 106 may include biometric identityverification for applications such as mobile banking. In someimplementations, an application can use the biometric reader 204 tofirst register the user's biometric identity on first use and thereaftermatch the biometric identity of the device holder with the registeredbiometric identity. The secure storage of the biometric identity for theuser may be provided by the removable secure card 104 or could belocated on a special secure memory embedded in the cover. For example,when the user changes devices 106, the identity footprint may be erasedfrom the initial device (if he removes the cover 102 and the card 104).In addition, another application running on the CPU of the cover 102 mayalso use the biometric data to secure access to certain features and/orservices. The antenna 206 may wirelessly transmit and receive RF signalsassociated with the card 104. In the transaction-card implementations,the antenna 206 may extend the transaction range of the card 104 forwirelessly executing transactions. FIG. 2B is another illustration of across-sectional view of the cover 102. In this view, a connector 208 ofthe mobile device 106 is illustrated. For example, the connector 208 maybe an iDock connector of an iPhone having 30 pins. FIG. 2C is yetanother cross sectional view of the cover 102. In this view, the cover102 includes the openings 214A and 214B for speakers included with themobile device 106 and a cavity 212 for connecting a power supply to theconnector 112 and the connector 208. In this case, the mobile device 106may be charged using the connector 208 without removing the cover 102.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate different implementations of the slot 110. InFIG. 3A, the slot 110 may be formed in the cover 102 such that a card104 may be inserted and removed without lifting or otherwise removing atleast a portion of the cover 102. In FIG. 3B, the slot 110 is formed onthe inside of the cover 102 such that the cover is at least partiallylifted or otherwise removed to insert and remove the card 104.

FIG. 4 illustrates some implementations of the convert module 202 thatconverts between USB and SD signals. As illustrated, the convertermodule 202 may receive a plurality of inputs associated with the card104 and convert the signals to a form compatible with the connector 208of the mobile device 106. In some implementations, the converter module202 may convert, for example, between data formats. In someimplementations, the converter module 202 may pass inputs tocorresponding outputs such as for VDD and GND.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example service system 500 forreceiving broadcast signals using an intelligent card. For example, thesystem 500 may include a SecureDigital (SD) card that receives broadcastsignals (e.g., terrestial digital video broadcast) and presents contentthrough a mobile host device based, at least in part, on the receivedbroadcast signals. Broadcast signals may include terrestrial and/orsatellite signals that encode images, audio, video, and/or othercontent. For example, the broadcast signals may be Digital VideoBroadcasting—Handheld (DVB-H), DVB-H2, Digital VideoBroadcasting—Satellite services to Handhelds (DVB-SH), Forward Link Only(FLO), Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB), Multimedia BroadcastMulticast Service (MBMS), satellite radio, and/or others. Aside from SD,the system 500 may include other interfaces that connect an intelligentcard to the host device such as, for example, MultiMediaCard (MMC),miniSD, microSD, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Apple iDock, Firewire,and/or others. An intelligent card may be a device configured to insertinto or otherwise attach to a mobile host device and access or otherwisereceiving broadcast signals (e.g., e.g., satellite radio) independent ofthe mobile host device. In some implementations, the intelligent cardmay be shaped as a microSD card, miniSD card, or microSD card including,for example, notches, raised portions and/or other features. In someimplementations, the system 500 may modify, translate, or otherwiseconvert received broadcast signals to a form processable by or otherwisenative to the mobile host device 106. In converting the signalprotocols, the system 500 may present media content otherwise foreign tothe mobile device 106. Foreign, as used herein, means any component,object, value, variable, content and/or data and/or data schema that isnot directly processable, accessible, receivable or otherwise capable ofcommunicating with the mobile devices 106. In some implementations, theconversion of the foreign content to compatible forms may be transparentto the user of the mobile device 106. By providing an intelligent card,the system 500 may access foreign content without either requiringadditional hardware, software, and/or firmware in the mobile hostdevice.

At a high level, the system 500 includes the mobile devices 106 a and102 b and the content provider 504 coupled to the network 108. Themobile device 106 includes a GUI 116 for providing presenting contentand a service card 104 for independently converting foreign content toforms compatible with the mobile device 106. In some implementations,the service card 104 may selectively switch antenna on and off inresponse to an event such as a selection of a graphical element usingthe GUI 116. The network 108 includes a content distribution stations112 a and 112 b (e.g., broadcast tower, satellite, IP broadcast tower)for broadcasting content to the service cards 110.

Each mobile device 106 comprises an electronic device operable tointerface with the service card 104. For example, the mobile device 106may receive and transmit wireless and/or wireless communication with thesystem 500. As used in this disclosure, the mobile devices 106 areintended to encompass cellular phones, data phones, pagers, portablecomputers, SIP phones, smart phones, personal data assistants (PDAs),digital cameras, MP3 players, camcorders, video player, game player, oneor more processors within these or other devices, or any other suitableprocessing devices capable of communicating information with the servicecard 104. In some implementations, the mobile devices 106 may be basedon a cellular radio technology. For example, the mobile device 106 maybe a PDA operable to wirelessly connect with an external or unsecurednetwork. In another example, the mobile device 106 may comprise asmartphone that includes an input device, such as a keypad, touchscreen, mouse, or other device that can accept information, and anoutput device that conveys information associated with a transactionwith the provider 504, including digital data, visual information, orGUI 116.

The GUI 116 comprises a graphical user interface operable to allow theuser of the mobile device 106 to interface with at least a portion ofthe system 500 for any suitable purpose, such as viewing contentchannels and/or displaying the Electronic Service Guide (ESG).Generally, the GUI 116 provides the particular user with an efficientand user-friendly presentation of data provided by or communicatedwithin the system 500 and/or also an efficient and user-friendly meansfor the user to self-manage settings and access channels offered by thecontent provider 504. The GUI 116 may comprise a plurality ofcustomizable frames or views having interactive fields, pull-down lists,and/or buttons operated by the user. The term graphical user interfacemay be used in the singular or in the plural to describe one or moregraphical user interfaces and each of the displays of a particulargraphical user interface. The GUI 116 can include any graphical userinterface, such as a generic media player or touch screen, thatprocesses information in the system 500 and presents the results to theuser.

The service card 104 can include any software, hardware, and/or firmwareconfigured to receive broadcast signals from the distribution stations112. For example, the service card 104 may receive content broadcastedby the content provider 504 and translate, map or otherwise convert thereceived content to forms viewable with the mobile device 106. In someimplementations, the service card 104 can present received contentthrough the GUI 116. In some implementations, the service card 104 mayinclude one or more chipsets that execute an operating system andsecurity processes to receive broadcast signals independent of themobile host device 106. In doing so, the mobile device 106 may notrequire additional hardware, software, and/or firmware to presentforeign content such as digital TV, IP-TV, satellite radio, satelliteTV, and/or other broadcast services. In some implementations, theservice card 104 may execute one or more of the following: wirelesslyreceive signals broadcasted by the distribution stations 112; determinesubscription levels of the card 104 based, at least in part, onlocally-stored user information; descramble content available to theuser in accordance with the subscription levels; translate betweenbroadcast protocols (e.g., DVB, FLO, MBMS, DMB) and protocols compatiblewith the service card 104; translate between service-card protocols andprotocols compatible with mobile device 106; present broadcasted contentfor viewing through the GUI 116; execute applications locally stored inthe service card 104; selectively switch the antenna on and off based,at least in part, on one or more events; authenticate user based, atleast in part, on information locally stored in the service card 104;present the Electronic Service Guide application for the user throughthe GUI 116 for selection of available channels; present menu optionsfor managing recordable content and configuring options for the personalvideo recorder application via GUI 116; present the personal videorecorder application for viewing of recorded content via GUI 116; and/orothers. In some implementations, the service card 104 may receive abroadcast signal in response to at least a user selecting a graphicalelement in the GUI 116. In some implementations, the service card 104may selectively switch the antenna between an on and off state inresponse to one or more events (e.g., user request, completion ofbroadcast, change of host device, change of network connection of thehost device, change of location). The service card 104 may include acommunication module with a protocol translation module, antenna tuningcircuit, power circuit and a miniature antenna tuned to receivebroadcast signals.

In some implementations, the service card 104 may initiate receiving toa broadcast signal in response to at least a user selecting a graphicalelement in the GUI 116. In some implementations, the service card 104may selectively switch the antenna between an on and off state inresponse to one or more events. The one or more events may include auser request, completion of broadcasted content, insertion of card 104in a different mobile device, location change, timer events, detectionof incorrect user ID and password entered by the user, message receivedfrom the content provider 504 using a broadcast/cellular signal, and/orothers. For example, the service card 104 may receive one or morecommands to switch the antenna off from the distribution station 512 orfrom the broadcast/cellular core network. In some implementations, theservice card 104 may request user identification such as a PIN, a userID and password combination, biometric signature, and/or others.

In regards to translating between protocols, the service card 104 mayprocess information in, for example, ISO 7816, a stand securityprotocol, and/or others. In this case, the service card 104 maytranslate between a broadcast protocol and the service-card protocol.Broadcast protocols may include DVB, DMB, FLO and/or MBMS. In someimplementations, ISO 7816 commands may be encapsulated within interfacecommands used to transmit data between the mobile host device 106 andthe card 104. In addition, the service card 104 may interface the mobiledevice 106 through a physical interface such as MicroSD, Mini-SD SD,MMC, miniMMC, microMMC, USB, miniUSB, microUSB, firewire, Apple iDock,and/or others. In regard to security processes, the service card 104 mayimplement one or more Conditional Access Systems (VideoGuard, IrdetoAccess, Nagravision, Conax, Viaccess and Mediaguard (a.k.a. SECA)). TheCAS may use encryption algorithms to descramble or otherwise decryptbroadcast signals to determine encoded content. In some implementations,the service card 104 may execute private key (symmetric algorithms) suchas Data Encryption Standard (DES), Triple DES (TDES) and/or others orpublic key (asymmetric algorithms) such as RSA, elliptic curves, and/orothers to implement the chosen CAS system compliant with the serviceprovider. For example, the service card 104 may include one or moreencryption keys such as public-private keys. In addition, the servicecard 104 may include memory (e.g., Flash, EEPROM) including a securedtoken accessible by the content providers 504 to store access rights ofthe user. The service card 104 may also store user data, applications,offline Webpages, and/or other information. For example, the servicecard 104 may include a secure token that identifies content that theuser subscribes to or can otherwise access. In addition, the servicecard 104 may execute or otherwise include digital rights managementtechnology to substantially prevent illegal copying, storing ordistributing or other violations of digital rights.

The service card 104 may present content (e.g., audio, video) to theuser using the GUI 116. In response to initiating foreign-contentaccess, the service card 104 may automatically present an offline Webpage through the GUI 116. In some implementations, the offline Web pagecan be associated with a content provider 504. In some implementations,the service card 104 can be backward compatible and operate as a massstorage device. For example, if the wireless interface of the servicecard 104 is not available or deactivated, the service card 104 mayoperate as a mass storage device enabling users to access data stored inthe memory component (e.g., Flash). In some implementations, the servicecard 104 can execute a set of initialization commands in response to atleast insertion into the mobile device 106. These initializationcommands may include determining device related information for themobile device 106 (e.g., device ID, device capabilities), determininguser relating information (e.g., user ID and password), incrementingcounters, setting flags and activating/deactivating functions accordingto pre-existing rules and/or algorithms.

In some implementations, the service card 104 may automatically executeone or more fraud control processes. For example, the service card 104may identify an operational change and automatically deactivate the card104. The service card 104 may execute two fraud control processes: (1)determine a violation of one or more rules; and (2) automaticallyexecute one or more actions in response to at least the violation. Inregards to rules, the service card 104 may locally store rulesassociated with updates to operational aspects of the service card 104.For example, the service card 104 may store a rule indicating a changein mobile host device 106 is an operational violation. In someimplementations, the service card 104 may store rules based, at least inpart, on updates to one or more of the following: device ID;subscription period; registration information; CAS parameters; and/orother aspects. In response to one or more events matching or otherwiseviolating rules, the service card 104 may execute one or more processesto substantially prevent access to broadcasted content. In someimplementations, the service card 104 may execute a command based, atleast in part, on an event type. For example, the service card 104 mayre-execute an activation process in response to at least a specifiedevent type. In some implementations, the service card 104 may execute acommand to disconnect the GUI 116 from the service card 104. The servicecard 104 may present a disconnection notification through the GUI 116prior to executing the command. In some implementations, the servicecard 104 may provide options for the user to configure a rule table (PVRrule table) related to the personal video recorder application. This mayallow the user to specify rules according to which content isautomatically recorded by the service card.

In regards to accessing broadcasted services, the interface between theservice card 104 and the station 512 may be DVB-H, DMB, MBMS, or FLO forMobile-TV and Sirius/XM for Satellite Radio or other digital Mobile-TVand/or satellite broadcast interfaces. Based on the PVR Rule Table, theservice card 104 may receive content from the broadcast content provider504 and store the content in real-time to the memory. The content playerof the mobile device 106 may then access the stored content using, forexample, a media player and access to the GUI 116. The antenna mode ofthe service card 104 may be set to physical authentication only becausethe service card 104 may use the mobile device 106 to present videoand/or audio. The secure element of the service card 104 may operate asset-top box (CAS token). In this implementation, the secure element myoperate in two different roles as illustrated in Table 1 below.

TABLE 1 DVB-H/MediaFLO or other Mobile-TV XM/Sirius or other SatelliteRadio Broadcast Broadcast Digital TV transmissions are generallyscrambled to This is a simpler case where the satellite radio allowcontent providers and content providers to content providers may offerservice to users who offer pay-per-use and tiered subscription servicesto have purchased a particular subscription plan. Only the end users. Inorder to perform this capability, protection applicable here-in is hencethe service there are two types of protection that may be protectionwhich would be implemented by the implemented: secure element. Thesecure element will store an a) Service Protection: In this case,subscription active subscription for the end-user which will relatedaccess rights are stored on a secure token enable the plug-in tosecurely receive transmission (such as the smart card in Cable orSatellite Set-top and produce output boxes). As and when a userpurchases a premium channel/package or pay-per-use event, access rightto the same is downloaded to this secure token. The algorithms andmethod of protection are generally provider dependent and in generallyreferred to as the CAS (Conditional Access System). The secure elementin the plug-in, being a secure token, will host the CAS algorithmcompliant with the content provider and the access keys management thatare managed dynamically depending on the content subscribed to by theend-user b) Content Protection: In this case, the content downloadcontains digital rights management technology wherein it cannot beillegally copied, stored or distributed. If required by the contentprovider, the secure element will implement the required DRM scheme ofthe content provider such that the content downloaded or viewed is usedby the end-user according to the restrictions imposed by the contentproviderThe table is for illustration purposes only. The activation of theservice card 104 may include some, all, or different aspects of thechart.

In some implementations, the user may acquire the service card 104 whensubscribing to a content provider's broadcast content service. Theactivation process may depend on whether the mobile device 106 includesan interface such as a screen, a keyboard and internet access. In someimplementations, the service card 104 may be activated online oroffline. Online activation may occur when the device 106 includes aninterface such as screen, keyboard and wireless internet access(Cellphone, laptop or Wireless PDA), offline activation may occur when adevice 106 does not include internet capability or doesn't have ascreen/keyboard (MP3/4 players). These two activation processes areillustrated below in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Online Activation Offline Activation When the device hasinternet access and has a In this case, the user may cradle his deviceto the PC screen/keyboard, it is assumed to have an internet that has aninternet access and launch the included browser and capable of browsingto any URL. In activation software. This software will take the userthis case, when the plug-in inserts, it performs the to the contentprovider's landing page to perform plug-in bootstrap and authenticationprocess. Once the registration and activation process. successful, thedevice is able to take the user to a landing page on a browser where theuser can perform the registration and activation process.The table is for illustration purposes only. The activation of theservice card 104 may include some, all, or different aspects of thechart.

In some implementations, the service card 104 may operate as a personalvideo recorded (PVR). For example, the service card 104 may include GBsof flash memory that may store multimedia content. The service card 104may include a microcontroller sufficiently strong to operate a recordingprocess while streaming the content to the content player on the mobiledevice 106 at the same time. The service card 104 may include anapplication residing on a protected area of the memory that would run aPVR and an Electronic Service Guide (ESG) application to enable a userto review the content program and select the programs recording. The DVRand ESG application may enable playing back the recorded content fromthe memory. In comparison, the service card 104 may include a strongermicrocontroller that has an internal clock (e.g., an ARM seriesprocessor). The service card 104 may include a special form factor thatallows the SD interface to connect to a SD to USB adaptor for laptopuse. In some implementations, the service card 104 includes a secureelement OS to enable the functionality described above. The service card104 may implement a CAS algorithm based on content provider'sspecification. The secure element OS may structure data in the secureelement to enable storage of subscription data for the end user. Themicrocontroller OS may be capable of personalizing the secure element byloading/updating user subscription parameters. In addition, themicrocontroller OS may be capable of presenting the service card 104 asSD mass storage to the mobile device 106. In addition to operating thememory, secure element, the broadcast receiver chipset and the antennaavailability, the microcontroller OS may implement a very fast contentwriting function on the memory in real-time, receive the ESG inreal-time from the broadcast content provider 204, and interact with thehost device's content player to display the content. The secure elementmay operate as the CAS and subscription storage token because ofcryptographic capabilities. The device application section may be usedto store provider specific applications that operate from this segmentof the memory or are installed on the mobile device 106 from thissegment of the memory.

In some implementations, the service card 104 may include broadcastapplications and WAN connectivity. In this case, the user may performpayment to a third party by connecting over the internet and/orperforming peer-to-peer payment by connecting to another user with thesame functionality. In some implementations, the service card 104 mayinclude broadcast applications and broadcast reception capabilities. Inthis case, the user may purchase content in real-time and pay formerchandise advertised over the broadcast content in real-time.

The content distribution network 108 facilitates wireless or wiredcommunication between the content providers 504 and any other local orremote computer. The distribution network 108 may be all or a portion ofan enterprise or secured network. While illustrated as single network,the distribution network 108 may be a continuous network logicallydivided into various sub-nets or virtual networks without departing fromthe scope of this disclosure, so long as at least a portion ofdistribution network 108 may facilitate communications of transactioninformation between the content providers 504. In some implementations,the distribution network 108 encompasses any internal or externalnetwork, networks, sub-network, or combination thereof operable tofacilitate communications between various computing components in system500. Network 108 may communicate, for example, Internet Protocol (IP)packets, Frame Relay frames, Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) cells,voice, video, data, and other suitable information between networkaddresses. Network 108 may include one or more local area networks(LANs), radio access networks (RANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs),wide area networks (WANs), all or a portion of the global computernetwork known as the Internet, and/or any other communication system orsystems at one or more locations. In some implementations, thedistribution network 108 include the content providers 504 a-c.

Content providers 504 a-c comprises an electronic device (e.g.,computing device) operable to broadcast content. In some implementation,the content providers 504 can provide broadcast signals that encodescontent displayable by the service card 104. The content providers 504may transmit one or more of the following: serial programs (e.g.,television series), movies, news, opinions, education content, training,sports events, Web pages; advanced blogging sites, travel-relatedcontent, food and/or cooking content; entertainment; topical moviesand/or videos (e.g., surfing, sailing, racing, extreme sports, etc.);political content (e.g., campaigning); adult content; court and/or trailprogramming; local-government content (e.g., C-SPAN); local programming(e.g., Wayne's World); performing arts (e.g., theater, concerts, musicvideos, etc.); virtual shopping malls; satellite radio content (audioonly channels); and/or other content. The provided content may be in anysuitable format such as MPEG, streaming, MP3, realtime, WMV, and/orothers. In the illustrated implementation, the content providers 504includes a conditional access module 124 for authenticating a user andassociated privileges prior to providing access to services. Forexample, the CAS module 124 may transmit a request for informationassociated with the user such as subscriber ID, receiver ID, PIN,username and password, and/or other information. Based, at least inpart, on information associated with the user information, the CASmodule 124 may determine available services, content, level of services,and/or other aspects of the requested foreign service.

In some implementations, the service card 104 may operate in accordancewith one or more of the following modes: active receiver; self train;killed; memory; inactive; and/or other modes. The service card 104 mayoperate active-receiver mode to present the service card 104 as abroadcast receiver. In this mode, the service card 104 may executeapplications access broadcast services through the broadcast network108. After the antenna of the service card 104 is activated in thismode, the network 108 may detect the presence of the service card 104.In this implementation, the mobile device 106 may not require additionalsoftware to access the services.

In regards to the self-train mode, the service card 104 may receivepersonalization information from another receiver. In someimplementations, the self-train mode can be activated by a specialaction (e.g., a needle point press to a small switch, entry of anadministrative password via the GUI 116). In response to at leastactivating this mode, the service card 104 may be configured to receivepersonalization data over, for example, the short range wirelessinterface from another peer service card or a wired connection with thehome broadcast receiver. Personalization data received in this mode mayinclude encrypted information that is stored in secured memory of theservice card 104. In some implementations, the service card 104 in thismode may receive the information through a wireless interface of atransmitter and/or others. The service card 104 may then synthesize theinformation that corresponds to the user account and personalize aninternal security module that includes, for example, serviceapplications for accessing services from the GUI 116 and associated usercredentials. The self-train mode may be used to re-personalize theservice card 104 in the field. In some implementations, all previousdata can be deleted if the self-train mode is activated. The self-trainmode may be a peer-to-peer personalization mode where the card 104 mayreceive personalization information from another service card 104. Thismode may represent an additional personalization mode as compared withfactory, store and/or Over-The-Air (OTA) personalization scenarios whichmay be server to client personalization scenarios. In someimplementations, the self-train mode may be a peer-to-peerpersonalization mode where the service card 104 receives personalizationinformation from another service card. Since two service cards 110 areused in this mode, this mode may be different from a server-to-clientpersonalization scenario as with a factory, store, and OTApersonalization.

In regards to the inactive mode, the service card 104 may temporarilydeactivate the wireless interface. In some implementations, the inactivemode can be activated through the physical interface with the mobiledevice 106 such as a SD interface. In response to at least theactivation of the inactive mode, the service card 104 may temporarilybehave as only a mass-memory card. In some implementations, the card 104may also enter this state when the reset needle point is pressed. Inthis mode, the service card 104 may preserve locally-stored informationincluding user information. In this mode, the service card 104 mayexecute the activation process and if successful may return to theactive mode. The content provider 504 may use this mode to temporarilyprevent usage in response to at least identifying at least potentiallyfraudulent activity.

In regards to the killed mode, the service card 104 may permanentlydeactivate the wireless interface. In some implementations, the killedmode is activated through the physical interface with the mobile device106 such as a SD interface. In response to at least the activation ofthe killed mode, the service card 104 may permanently behaves as a massmemory stick. In the event that the reset needle point is pressed, theservice card 104 may, in some implementations, not be made to enter anyother modes. In addition, the service card 104 may delete userinformation in memory in response to at least this mode being activated.In some implementations, the providers 504 may use this mode to deletedata from a service card 104 that is physically lost but still connectedto the broadcast network 108.

In regards to the memory mode, the service card 104 may operate as amass memory stick such that the memory is accessible throughconventional methods. In some implementations, the service card 104 mayautomatically activate this mode in response to at least being removedfrom the host device, inserted into a non-authorized host device, and/orother events. The service card 104 may be switched to active mode fromthe memory mode by, for example, inserting the card 104 into anauthorized device or may be switched from this mode into the self-trainmode to re-personalize the device for a new host device or a new useraccount. In some implementations, the memory mode may operatesubstantially same as the inactive mode.

In some implementations, the service card 104 may bere-personalized/updated such as using software device management processand/or a hardware reset. For example, the user may want tore-personalize the service card 104 to change host devices, to havemultiple host devices, and/or other reasons. In regards to the softwaredevice management, the user may need to cradle the new host device withthe service card 104 inserted to launch the software device managementapplication. In some implementations, the software managementapplication can be an application directly installed on a client,integrated as a plug-in to a normal synchronization application such asActiveSync, available via a browser plug-in running on the plug-inprovider's website, and/or other sources. The user may log into theapplication and verify their identity, and in response to verification,the application may allow access to a devices section in the devicemanagement application. The device management application may read theservice card 104 and display the MAC addresses, signatures of thedevices that he has inserted his plug-in to, and/or other devicespecific information. The mobile device 106 may be marked as active andthe host device may be shown as disallowed or inactive. The applicationmay enable the user to update the status of the new host device, and inresponse to at least the selection, the device management applicationmay install the signature on the new host device and mark update thestatus as allowable in secure memory of the service card 104. The usermay be able to also update the status of the mobile device 106 todisallowed. Otherwise, both devices may be active and the service card104 may be switched between the two devices. In regards to the hardwarereset process, the use may use the reset needle point press on thephysical service card 104 to activate the self-train mode. In this mode,the user data may be deleted and have to be reloaded. When the servicecard 104 is inserted into the new host device, the provisioning processmay begin as discussed above.

In some aspects of operation, the content provider 504 may transmitinformation to the mobile host device 106 using the service card 104 inresponse to at least an event. The information may include, for example,service information (e.g., access history), scripts, applications, Webpages, and/or other information associated with the content provider504. The event may include completing access to a service, determining aservice card 104 is outside the operating range of a broadcast network108, receiving a request from a user of the mobile host device, and/orothers. For example, the content provider 504 may identify a mobile hostdevice 106 associated with a card 104 that accessed a service andtransmit service information to the service card 104 using the broadcastor cellular core network 108. In addition or alternatively, the contentprovider 504 may request information from the mobile host device 106,the service card 104 and/or the user using the broadcast or cellularcore network 108. For example, the content provider 504 may transmit arequest to update the Electronic Service Guide to the card 104 throughthe broadcast or cellular core network 108.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example service card 104 inaccordance with some implementations of the present disclosure. Ingeneral, the service card 104 may independently receive broadcastsignals to present through the GUI 116 of the mobile host device 106.The service card 104 is for illustration purposes only and may includesome, all, or different elements without departing from the scope of thedisclosure.

As illustrated, the service card 104 includes an antenna 602, an AntennaControl Function (ACF) module 604, a broadcast receiver 606, a set-topmodule 608, a CPU 610 and memory 612. The antenna 602 receives wirelessbroadcast signals such as satellite radio and/or TV. In someimplementations, the ACF module 604 can selectively switch the antenna602 between an active state and an inactive state in response to atleast an event. A switching event may include a user selection throughthe GUI 116. In some implementations, the switching event may be based,at least in part, on operational aspects of the mobile host device 106such as completion of presentation of multimedia. In addition, the ACFmodule 604 may dynamically adjust the impedance of the antenna 602 totune the receive frequency. The ACF module 604 may selectively switchthe antenna 602 on and off in response to at least a command from theCPU 610. In some implementations, the antenna 602 can be connectedthrough a logic gate to allow for code from the CPU 610 to turn theantenna 602 on and off through the ACF module 604.

The receiver 606 can include any software, hardware, and/or firmwareconfigured to receive broadcast signals using the antenna 602. Forexample, the receiver 606 may convert broadcast signals to set topmodule processable signals. In some implementations, the receiver 606may translate a broadcast protocol to a security protocol. For example,the receiver 606 may translate to ISO 7816, a stand security protocol,and/or others. Broadcast signals may include DVB, DMB, FLO and/or MBMS.In some implementations, ISO 7816 commands may be encapsulated withininterface commands used to transmit data between the mobile host device106 and the card 104.

The set-top module 608 can include any software, hardware, and/orfirmware configured to unscramble broadcast signals to a formdisplayable through the GUI 110. For example, the set-top module 608 maylaunch the CAS application to unscramble the broadcast signal todetermine encoded content and decrypt the encoded content to apresentable form (e.g., MPEG 4). In some implementations, the set-topmodule 608 may authenticate one or more aspects of the mobile hostdevice, user, and/or card 104. In some implementations, the set-topmodule 608 may authenticate a user by verifying a physical connectionwith a user using user information such as user ID and password,biometric information (e.g., fingerprint), a PIN entered by the user, ax.509 type certificate that is unique to the user and stored on the hostdevice 110, and/or other processes. For example, the set-top module 608may compare user information provided through the GUI 116 with userinformation stored in the local memory 612. Alternatively or inaddition, the set-top module 608 may authenticate the mobile host device106 by comparing a device signature with a locally-stored certificate.In some implementations, the user can select a user-id and password orPIN or certificate at provisioning time. If this case, the CPU 610 mayinstantiate a software plug-in on the host device. For example, asoftware plug-in may request the user for his user-id and password orPIN in real time, read a user certificate installed on the device (e.g.,x.509), and/or others. The operation of the software plug-in may becustomized by the provider. Regardless, the returned user data may becompared with user data stored in the memory 612. In case of asuccessful match, the ACF module 604 may activate the antenna 602. Incase of an unsuccessful match of a certificate and/or user information,the card 104 is deactivated. In case of unsuccessful user ID andpassword match, the user may be requested to repeat user-id and passwordattempts until a successful match or the number of attempts exceeds athreshold. The card provider may customize the attempt threshold.

In some implementations, the set-top module 608 may implement one ormore Conditional Access Systems with accompanying encryption algorithmsto decode broadcast signals. For example, the set-top module 608 mayinclude or otherwise identify a one or more keys for decoding broadcastcontent. In some implementations, the service card 104 may executeprivate key (symmetric algorithms) such as Data Encryption Standard(DES), Triple DES (TDES) and/or others or public key (asymmetricalgorithms) such as RSA, elliptic curves, and/or others. For example,the service card 104 may include one or more encryption keys such aspublic-private keys. In connection with decoding signals, the CAS in theset-top module 608 may identify a subscription profile identifyingcontent available to the user. For example, the CAS in the set-topmodule 608 may determine one or more broadcast channels available to theuser and decode one of the available broadcast channels for presentingthrough the GUI. The set top box 608 may present the Electronic ServiceGuide to the user through the GUI. The Electronic Service Guide may notonly present the choice of channels available to the user but may alsomake available a detailed listing of programming content available oneach channel. The Electronic Service Guide may also interface to thePersonal Video Recorder application in the card and provide options tothe user to set up timers to record certain programs. The ElectronicService Guide may also be periodically updated by the service providerthrough the set top box.

The CPU 610 can include any software, hardware, and/or firmware thatmanages operational aspects of the card 104 independent of the mobilehost device 106. For example, the CPU 610 may include a runtimeenvironment for executing broadcast applications for accessing foreigncontent encoded in broadcast signals. In some implementations, the CPU610 may execute one or more of the following: interfacing the mobilehost device 106 such as translating between protocols; determiningoperational aspects of the mobile host device 106; transmitting commandsto the mobile host device 106 to substantially control one or morehardware components (e.g., GUI 116, memory); identifying eventsassociated with activating and deactivating the antenna 602; executingbroadcast applications that present foreign content from the GUI 116;executing media protocol conversion to adapt the content according tothe capabilities of the media player accessible through the GUI, executethe PVR application to record content on the flash memory of the card,provide access to stored content on the flash memory, manage the set topbox using ISO 7816 interface, mange the broadcast chipset using ahigh-speed IP interface, manage the memory using a standard memorycontroller interface; and/or others. In some implementations, the CPU610 may transmit to the ACF module 604 switching commands in response toan event such as a user request, completion of a transaction, and/orothers. In some implementations, the CPU 610 may switch the antenna 602between active and inactivate mode using the ACF module 604 based, atleast in part, on a personalization parameter defined by, for example, auser, distributor (e.g., content provider), and/or others. For example,the CPU 610 may activate the antenna 602 when the service card 104 isphysically connected to a host device and when a handshake with the hostdevice is successfully executed. In some implementations, the CPU 610may automatically deactivate the antenna 602 when the service card 104is removed from the host device. In regards to the handshaking process,the CPU 610 may execute one or more authentication processes prior toactivating the service card 104 and/or antenna 602 as illustrated inFIG. 11. For example, the CPU 610 may execute a physical authentication,a device authentication, and/or a user authentication. For example, theCPU 610 may activate the antenna 602 in response to at least detecting aconnection to the physical interface with the host device (e.g., SDinterface) and successful installation of the device driver for massmemory access (e.g., SD device driver) on the host device. In someimplementations, device authentication may include physicalauthentication in addition to a signature comparison of a devicesignature stored in memory 612 that was created during first-use(provisioning) to a run-time signature calculated using, for example, aunique parameter of the host device 106. In the event no host devicesignature exists in the memory 612, the CPU 610 may bind with the firstcompatible host device 106 that the card 104 is inserted into. Acompatible host device 106 may be a device that can successfullyaccomplish physical authentication successfully. If a host-devicesignature is present in the memory 612, the CPU 610 may compare thestored signature with the real-time signature of the current host device106. If the signatures match, the CPU 610 may proceed to complete thebootstrap operation. If the signatures do not match, host device 106 maybe rejected, bootstrap is aborted and the card 104 may be returned tothe mode it was before being inserted into the device.

The memory 612 may include a secure and non-secured section. In thisimplementation, the secure memory 612 may store one or more usercredentials that are not accessible by the user. In addition, the memory612 may store offline Web pages, applications, service history, and/orother data. In some implementations, the memory 612 may include Flashmemory from 64 MB to 32 GB. In addition, the memory 612 may bepartitioned into user memory and device application memory. The memory612 may store signatures of allowed host devices and/or antenna modes.In some implementations, the memory 612 may include secure portionsdesigned to be accessible only by the content provider.

FIG. 7 illustrates is a block diagram illustrating an example CPU 610 ofFIG. 6 in accordance with some implementations of the presentdisclosure. In general, the CPU 610 includes personalized modules thatreceive foreign content independent of the mobile device 106. Theillustrated CPU 610 is for example purposes only, and the CPU 610 mayinclude some, all or different modules without departing from the scopeof this disclosure.

In some implementations, the service card 104 can include a hostcontroller 702, a real-time framework 704, a broadcast application 706,a real-time OS 708, a high speed IP interface 710, a memory controller712, and a security module driver 714. In some implementations, the hostcontroller 702 includes an interface layer, an API/UI layer, a Webserver, and/or other elements associated with the mobile host device106. The host controller 702 includes interfaces to the host device,i.e., physical connection. In regards to the physical interface, thehost controller 702 may physically interface the mobile device 106 usingan SD protocol such as MicroSD, Mini-SD or SD (full-size). In someimplementations, the physical interface may include a converter/adapterto convert between two different protocols based, at least in part, onthe mobile device 106. In some implementations, the mobile device 106may communicate using protocols such as USB, MMC, Firewire, iPhoneproprietary interface, and/or others. In addition, the host controller702 may include any software, hardware, and/or firmware that operates asan API between the mobile device 106 and the service card 104. Prior toaccessing services, the service card 104 may automatically installdrivers in the mobile device 106 in response to at least insertion. Forexample, the service card 104 may automatically install a microSD devicedriver in the device 106 to enable the service card 104 to interface themobile device 106. In some implementations, the service card 104 mayinstall an enhanced device driver such as a Mass Memory with Radio (MMR)API. In this implementation, the interface can drive a class of plug-insthat contain mass memory as well as a radio interface. The MMR API mayexecute one or more of the following: connect/disconnect to/from the MMRcontroller (Microcontroller in the plug-in); transfer data using MMprotocol (e.g., SD, MMC, XD, USB, Firewire); send encrypted data to theMMR controller; receive Acknowledgement of Success or Error; receivedstatus word indicating description of error; turn radio on/off; sendinstruction to the service card 104 to turn the antenna on withspecifying the mode of operation (e.g., sending mode, listening mode);transmit data such as send instruction to controller to transmit datavia the radio; listen for data such as send instruction to controller tolisten for data; read data such as send instruction to controller tosend the data received by the listening radio; and/or others. In someimplementations, MMR can be compliant with TCP/IP. In someimplementations, API encapsulated ISO 7816 commands may be processed bythe security module in addition to other commands.

In some implementations, host controller 702 can operate in accordancewith the two processes: (1) the service card 104 as the master and themobile device 106 as the slave; and (2) the card UT as the master. Inthe first process, the host controller 702 may pass one or more commandsto the mobile device 106 in response to, for example, insertion of theservice card 104 into a slot in the mobile device 106, a request fromthe GUI 116, and/or other events. In some implementations, the hostcontroller 702 can request the mobile device 106 to execute one or moreof following functions: Get User Input; Get Signature; Display Data;Send Data; Receive Data; and/or others. The Get User Input command maypresent a request through the GUI 116 for data from the user. In someimplementations, the Get User Input may present a request for multipledata inputs. The data inputs may be any suitable format such as numeric,alphanumeric, and/or other strings of characters. The Get Signaturecommand may request the mobile device 106 to return identification datasuch as, for example, a phone number, a device ID like an IMEI code or aMAC address, a network code, a subscription ID like the SIM card number,a connection status, location information, Wi-Fi beacons, GPS data,and/or other device specific information. The Display Data command maypresent a dialog to the user through the GUI 116. In someimplementations, the dialog can disappear after a period of time, a userselection, and/or other event. The Send Data command may request themobile device 106 to transmit packet data using its own connection tothe external world (e.g., SMS, cellular, Wi-Fi). The Receive Datacommand may request the mobile device 106 to open a connection channelwith certain parameters and identify data received through theconnection. In some implementations, the command can request the mobiledevice 106 to forward any data (e.g., SMS) satisfying certain criteriato be forwarded to the service card 104.

In regards to the UT as master, the host controller 702 may execute oneor more of the following commands: security module Command/Response;Activate/Deactivate; Flash Memory Read/Write; Send Data with or withoutencryption; Receive Data with or without decryption; URL Get Data/URLPost Data; and/or others. The security module commands may relate tosecurity functions provided by the card and are directed towards thesecurity module within the service card 104 (e.g., standard ISO 7816command, proprietary commands). In some implementations, the commandsmay include encryption, authentication, provisioning of data, creationof security domains, update of security domain, update of usercredentials after verification of key, and/or others. In someimplementations, the commands may include non security related smartcard commands such as, for example, read service history commands. Theread service guide command may perform a read of the Electronic ServiceGuide data stored in the memory 612 of the service card 104. In someimplementations, certain flags or areas of the memory 612 may be writtento after security verification. The Activate/Deactivate command mayactivate or deactivate certain functions of the service card 104. TheFlash Memory Read/Write command may execute a read/write operation on aspecified area of the memory 612. The Read command may be used by theMedia Player to receive the streaming content selected by the user forviewing. The Send Data with or without encryption command may instructthe mobile device 106 to transmit data using a wireless connection. Inaddition, the data may be encrypted by the service card 104 prior totransmission using, for example, keys and encryption capability storedwithin the set-top module 608. The Receive Data with or withoutdecryption command may instruct the service card 104 to switch tolistening mode to receive data from its wireless connection with thebroadcast network 108. In some implementations, data decryption can berequested by the security module using, for example, keys and decryptionalgorithms available on the security module, i.e., on-board decryption.The URL Get Data/URL Post Data command may instruct the host controller702 to return pages as per offline get or post instructions using, forexample, offline URLs.

In some implementations, the host controller 702 may assign or otherwiseassociate URL style addressing to certain files stored in the memory 612(e.g., flash) of the service card 104. In some implementations, the hostcontroller 702 can locate a file using the URL and returns the file tothe GUI 116 using standard HTTP, HTTPS style transfer. In someimplementations, the definition of the files can be formatted usingstandard HTML, XHTML, WML and/or XML style languages. The file mayinclude links that point to additional offline storage locations in thememory 612 and/or Internet sites that the mobile device 106 may access.In some implementations, the host controller 702 may support securityprotocols such as SSL. The host controller 702 may transfer anapplication in memory 612 to the mobile device 106 for installation andexecution. The host controller 702 may request the capabilities of thebrowser on the device 106 using, for example, the browser user agentprofile, in order to customize the offline Web page according to thesupported capabilities of the device and the browser, such as, forexample, supported markup language, screen size, resolution, colors andsuch.

As part of the Real time OS, the real-time framework 704 may execute oneor more functions based, at least in part, on one or more periods oftime. For example, the real-time framework 704 may enable an internalclock available on the CPU 610 to provide timestamps in response to atleast requested events. The real-time framework 704 may allow certaintasks to be pre-scheduled such that the tasks are executed in responseto at least certain time and/or event based triggers. This aspect isused by the Real Time OS to generate triggers to launch the PersonalVideo Recorder application, Set top box and the broadcast chipset tobegin reception and recording of the content if the user set timer forcontent recording has been met. In some implementations, the real-timeframework 704 may allow the CPU 610 to insert delays in certaintransactions. In some implementation, a part of WAP standards calledWTAI (Wireless Telephoney Application Interface) can be implemented toallow offline browser pages on the card 104 to make use of functionsoffered by the mobile device 106.

The broadcast application 706 can include any software, hardware, and/orfirmware that receive broadcast content. For example, the broadcastapplication 706 may receive a request for content through the GUI andreceive the associated broadcast signal in response to at least therequest. In some implementations, the broadcast application 706 mayexecute one or more of the following: transmit properties of the servicecard 104; to the broadcast Content Distribution System; download theElectronic Service Guide data from the Broadcast Content DistributionSystem; tune the antenna to the right frequency based, at least in part,on selection made by the user via the Electronic Service Guide viewed onthe GUI; receive the broadcasted content based, at least in part, on thesubscription information; transmit user profile and authentication datato the content distribution system, receive instructions and data toupdate the Electronic Service Guide, receive request from the CPU tobegin or end the broadcast reception; and/or other processes. In thesecase, the broadcast application 710 may present media through the GUI116 that is otherwise not accessible by the mobile host device 106,i.e., foreign content.

The real-time OS 708 may execute or otherwise include one or more of thefollowing: real-time framework 704; a host process that implements thephysical interface between the service-card CPU and the mobile device106; an interface that implements the physical interface between theservice-card CPU and the security module; a memory-management processthat implements the ISO 7816 physical interface between the service-cardCPU and the memory 612; an application-layer process that implements theAPI and UT capabilities; the ACF module 604; power management; and/orothers. In some implementations, the real-time OS 708 may manage thephysical interface between the service-card CPU and the memory 612 thatincludes memory segmentation to allow certain memory areas to berestricted access and/or data buffers/pipes. In some implementations,the CPU 610 may include a separate memory controller 712 for managingthe local memory 612. In some implementations, the real-time OS 708 mayinclude a microcontroller OS configured to personalizing the set-topmodule 608 such as by, for example, converting raw data (account number,subscription information, user profile, receiver ID, CAS parameters)into secure encrypted information. In addition, the microcontroller OSmay present the card 104 as a microSD mass storage to the host device106. The microcontroller OS may partition the memory 612 into a usersection and a protected device application section. In this example, thedevice application section may be used to store provider specificapplications that either operate from this segment of the memory or areinstalled on the host device 106 from this segment of the memory.

The high speed IP interface 318 may provide the hardware protocolimplementation and/or drivers for digital streaming contentcorresponding to the broadcasting signals received by the broadcastreceiver. For example, the through this high speed IP interface, the CPUmay receive non-encrypted or non-scrambled digital streaming contentassociated with free or off-air or non-premium channels. In this case,this streaming content is directly made available to the media player ofthe host device after appropriate media protocol translation ifrequired. For example, through this high speed IP interface, the CPU mayreceive encrypted or scrambled digital content associated with premiumor subscription channels. In this case, the content is first sent to theset-top box for decoding and unscrambling and then forwarded to themedia player after any appropriate media translation.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram 800 of personalization of a intelligentcard (e.g., the service card 104). In particular, the intelligent cardmay be personalized prior to being issued to a user, i.e., pre-issuance,or after being issued to a user, i.e., post-issuance. In regards topre-issuance, intelligent cards may be personalized in mass batches at,for example, a factory. In this example, each intelligent card may beloaded with user credentials, security framework, applications, offlineWeb pages, and/or other data. In some implementations, a intelligentcard may be personalized individually at, for example, an electronicsretailer branch. In this case, a intelligent card may be individuallyloaded with data associated with a user after, for example, purchasingthe card. As for post issuance, the intelligent card may be personalizedwirelessly. For example, the service card 104 may be personalizedthrough a cellular connection established using the mobile device 106.In some implementations, an intelligent card may be personalized bysynchronizing with a computer such as client. The service card 104 mayreceive from an enterprise at least associated with the service GUI 116that personalization data prior to activation including usercredentials, broadcast applications, personal video recorderapplications and at least one of operational flags, rule table or userinterface. The personalization data present in the card may be updatedafter activation using at least one of the following methods: wirelessor over the air messages containing special and secure updateinstructions; internet or client application running on a PC connectedto the service card 104 via the host device or a card reader; internetapplication wirelessly connecting to the service card 104 via the hostmobile device or user interface application of the service card 104itself, and/or other methods.

In some implementations, provisioning of the intelligent card can bebased, at least in part, on the distribution entity (e.g., serviceprovider, wireless operator, user). For example, the intelligent cardmay be distributed by a service provider such as a content provider (forexample, DirecTV). In the service provider implementation, theintelligent card can be pre-provisioned with user accounts. In thiscase, the intelligent card may be activated in response to at leastinitial insertion into a host device. The antenna mode may be set tophysical authentication only by default. In some examples, the user mayself-select a user-id/password or PIN authentication to preventunauthorized use or through a PC cradle and plug-in management softwareif the host device does not have a screen and keyboard. In thewireless-operator implementation, the intelligent card may requiredevice authentication before activation. In some examples, the user mayprovision service data (e.g., subscriber profile) using one of severalmethods. In addition, the user may add user authentication. In theuser-provided implementation, the user may acquire the intelligent cardfrom, for example, a retail store or other channels like OEM host devicemanufacturers. In this case, the user may activate the card in aplurality of different devices with provider selected provisioning.

In regards to activation, the intelligent card may be configured inmemory mode when user acquires the card from, for example a contentprovider, a wireless operator, a third-party provider, and/or others.Activation of the card may include the following two levels: 1)physically, specifying antenna availability under a specific set ofcircumstances desired by the provider; and b) logically, at the serviceprovider signifying activation of the broadcast application carried onthe card. In some implementations, activation may be based, at least inpart on device distributor, antenna availability selection, and/or typeof host device as illustrated in Table 2 below.

TABLE 3 Plug-In Initial State Plug-in Seller and and Antenna Device HasNo Screen/ Device Has Screen & Mode of distribution Availability ChoiceKeyboard keyboard Content provider ships Plug-In is in Memory Manual:User has to If the device is capable of plug-in directly to the Mode, Itis full call provider's number wireless access, upon subscriber orthrough personalized with user's to activate his account, insertion, theplug-in participating resellers/ account information and the Device canonly spawns a web page and distributors etc. Antenna mode is set to workwith a single takes the user to content Physical Authentication account.User can also provider's website. The access content user self activateshis provider's site on the account by entering his internet usinganother account number and PC to activate his matching secret personalaccount information (home phone number for example). The user can alsooptionally select a user-id and password (change Antenna availability touser authentication) at the same time. If Internet connection is notavailable, the device can automatically dial a voice call to contentprovider's number for account activation. If wireless connection is notavailable as well (device is only a PDA), the user has to fallback tomanual activation (see left) WNO: Wireless Plug-In is in Memory NotApplicable Assumption: Device has a Network Operator Mode, it ispartially functional wireless Ships plug-in bundled personalized (deviceconnection. Operator with host device, User signature of the host offersa bundled broadcast can select his preferred device loaded to preventapplication and host device and plugin user from changing hostsubscription. When user is bundled with it if device) while other clicksthe broadcast user would like to information is not application, theuser is avail of this service loaded. Antenna invited to sign-up withAvailability is set to operator's partner content Device Authenticationprovider for a new (plug-in can only used account and subscription. withhost device it is Once sign-up is shipped with) successful, account datais downloaded Over the Air or Over the Internet to the plugin and it isactivated for use Device can use multiple content providers in thisscenario and store multiple channels. User can select to enter a user IDand password for a content provider in the broadcast application inorder to convert Antenna availability to user and device authenticationfor that content provider Plug-in is bound to a device signature. Whenremoved from the device, the Antenna turns off and the plug-in turnsinto a simple mass memory stick. When Plug-in is inserted into anotherhost device, the signature doesn't match and Antenna remains off. WNO:Wireless Plug-In is in Memory Not Applicable Assumption: Device hasNetwork Operator Mode, it is functional wireless Ships plug-in as anunpersonalized. Antenna connection. Plug-In will accessory with anAvailability is set to spawn an internet advice for compatible Networkauthentication connection to the operator devices, User can is set toOn. Plug-In will portal and the broadcast select his preferred bind tofirst device it is application will be host device and inserted in andwhere downloaded upon user attempt to operate his network authenticationis confirmation. User can plug-in with, to avail successful rejectdownload and of the service choose to manually provision contentprovider data by going to a third party content provider or directly tothe content provider website. Plug-In is bound to the device and to thewireless provider's network. If the same device is unlocked and used onanother network, the plug-in will cease to operate and will revert backto memory mode. When removed from the device, the plug-in will revert tothe memory mode. OEM 1: Cellphone Device Authentication Not ApplicableOption A: Device manufacturer (device comes bundled Manufacturer offersa with a cellphone) broadcast application, rest of the process remainsas above Option B: Wireless Operator offers a broadcast application.User goes to the wireless operator portal and downloads this applicationOver the Air. The rest of the process then remains the same as aboveOption C: User navigates to a third party broadcast application (exampleMSN-TV, Mobi-TV). Sign up is offered to participating content providerand applications are personalized on the plug- in Over the InternetOption D: User navigates to content provider's website and activates anew account which is personalized over the Internet on the plug-in OEM2: Other Device Authentication User has to cradle the If the device haswireless manufacturer device to the PC with connection (it is a wirelessan internet connection PDA): Same as above If and sign-up on the PC thedevice has no wireless by going to an content connection (it is anprovider's website unconnected PDA): Same directly. Account is as leftdownloaded over the internet via the cradle and then the device isactivated. In this process, the plug-in is bound to the devicesignature. When removed from the host device, the antenna turns off Whenplugged into another device, the device signature fails and the devicebehaves like a mass memory device onlyThe illustrated chart is for example purposes only. The user mayactivate an intelligent card using the same, some, or differentprocesses without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 900 forautomatically bootstrapping an intelligent card in response to at leastinsertion into a host device. In general, an intelligent card mayexecute one or more authentication procedures prior to activation. Manyof the steps in this flowchart may take place simultaneously and/or indifferent orders as shown. System 100 may use methods with additionalsteps, fewer steps, and/or different steps, so long as the methodsremain appropriate.

Method 900 begins at step 902 where insertion into a host device isdetected. For example, the service card 104 may detect insertion intothe mobile device 106. If authentication is not required for any aspectof the intelligent card at decisional step 904, then execution ends. Ifauthentication is required for at least one aspect, then executionproceeds to decisional step 906. If communication with the host deviceincludes one or more errors, then, at step 908, a failure is indicatedto the user. In the example, the service card 104 may present anindication of a communication error to the user using the GUI 116. If acommunication error is not detected at decisional step 906, thenexecution proceeds to decisional step 910. In some implementations, theintelligent card uploads an SD driver to the host device. If theintelligent card only requires physical authentication, then executionproceeds to decisional step 912. If the network authentication flag isnot set to on, then, at step 914, the antenna is turned on and theintelligent card is updated with host-device signature. As for theexample, the service card 104 may activate the antenna for wirelesstransactions and update local memory with the host-device signature. Ifthe network authentication flag is turned on at decisional step 912,then, at step 916, the intelligent card transmits a request for thenetwork ID to the host device. Next, at step 918, the intelligent cardretrieves a locally-stored network ID. If the stored network ID and therequest network ID match at decisional step 920, then the card isactivated at step 914. If the two network ID's do not match, then theantenna is deactivated at step 922.

Returning to decisional step 910, if the authentication is not onlyphysical authentication, then execution proceeds to decisional step 924.If the authentication process includes device authentication, then, atstep 926, the intelligent card transmits a request for a network ID tothe host device. At step 928, the intelligent card retrieves a locallystored device signatures. If the intelligent card does not include atleast one device signature, then execution proceeds to decisional step934. If the intelligent card includes one or more device signatures,then execution proceeds to decisional step 932. If one of the devicesignatures matches the request network ID, then execution proceeds todecisional step 934. If the signatures and the request network ID do notmatch, then execution proceeds to step 922 for deactivation. If userauthentication is not included in the authentication process, thenexecution proceeds to decisional step 912 for physical authentication.If user authentication is included at decisional step 934, thenexecution proceeds to step 938.

Returning to decisional step 924, if the authentication process does notinclude device authentication, then execution proceeds to decisionalstep 936. If user authentication is not included in the process, then,at step 922, the intelligent card is turned off. If user authenticationis included, then, at step 938, the intelligent card request a user idand password from the user using the host device. While the userauthentication is described with respect to entering a user id andpassword through the mobile host device, the user may be authenticatedusing other information such as a simple PIN and/or biometricinformation (e.g., fingerprint). Again returning to the example, theservice card 104 may present a request for the user to enter a user-idand password through the GUI 116. At step 940, the intelligent cardsends the entered information to the service provider using the cellularnetwork or the broadcast network. If at the account information isvalidated by the service provider at decisional step 942, then executionproceeds to decisional step 912 for physical authentication. If theaccount information is not validated at decisional step 942, thenexecution proceeds to decisional step 944. If the number of attemptshave not exceeded a specified threshold, then execution returns to step938. If the number of attempts has exceed to the threshold, then theantenna is deactivated at step 922. In the example, if the event thatthe service card 104 fails to authorize the device, network and/or user,the service card 104 may wirelessly transmit an indication to theassociated service provider using the cellular radio technology of themobile host device 106. In this case, the illustrated method 900 may beimplemented as a fraud control process to substantially preventunauthorized use of the service card 104.

FIG. 1000 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 1000 foractivating a wireless transaction system including an intelligent card.In general, an intelligent card may execute one or more activationprocesses in response to, for example, a selection from a user. Many ofthe steps in this flowchart may take place simultaneously and/or indifferent orders as shown. System 500 may use methods with additionalsteps, fewer steps, and/or different steps, so long as the methodsremain appropriate.

Method 1000 begins at step 1002 where a request to activate a servicecard is received. For example, the user may select a graphical elementdisplayed through the GUI 116 of a mobile host device 106 in FIG. 1. Ifan account activation is included at decisional step 1004, then at step1006, a request to activate the associated user account is wirelesslytransmitted to service provider using broadcast radio technology of thehost device. For example, the service card 104 may wireless transmit anactivation request to the service GUI 116 using the cellular radiotechnology of the mobile host device 106. If an account activation isnot included, then execution proceeds to decisional step 1008. If cardactivation is not included, then execution ends. If card activation isincluded, then execution proceeds to decisional step 1010. If anactivation code is not included, then at step 1012, one or morepreprogrammed questions are presented to the user using the GUI of thehost device. Returning to the initial example, the service card 104 mayidentify locally stored questions and present the questions to the userusing the GUI 116 of the mobile host device 106. At step 1014,locally-stored answers to the programmed questions are identified.Returning to decisional step 1010, if an activation code is included,then execution proceeds to decisional step 1016. If the activation codeis manually entered by the user, then at step 1018, a request for theactivation code is presented to the user through the GUI of the mobilehost device. In the initial example, the service card 104 may present arequest for an activation code such as a string of characters to theuser through the GUI 116 of the mobile host device 106. If theactivation code is not manually entered by the user, then at step 1020,the service card wirelessly transmits a request for the activation codeusing the cellular radio technology of the host device. In the broadcastexample, the service card 104 may transmit a request to the serviceprovider using the cellular core network 108. In either case, thelocally-stored activation code is identified at step 1022. If thelocally stored information matches the provided information atdecisional step 1024, then at step 1026, the service card is activated.For example, the service card 104 may activate in response to at least auser entering a matching activation code through the GUI 116. If theprovided information does not match the locally stored information, thenexecution ends.

FIGS. 11A-C is an example call flow 1100 in accordance with someimplementations of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the flow 1100includes a network 1102, a host device 1104, an intelligent card 1106,and a broadcast network 1108. The host device 1104 is configured tocommunicate with the network 1102 and includes a slot for insertion ofthe intelligent card 1106. The intelligent card 1106 is configured totransmit commands to and receive data from a user interface application1110 executed by the host device 1110 and execute access foreignservices independent of the host device 1110. The card 1106 includes aCPU 1112 for accessing services and a wireless chipset 1114 forcommunicating with the broadcast network 1108. The CPU 1112 executes ahost controller/API interface 1116 configured to transmits commands in aform compatible with the host device 1104 and convert data from the hostdevice 1104 to a form compatible with the CPU 1112.

As illustrated, the flow 1100 may include multiple sessions 1120 betweenthe host device 1104 and the card 1106 and between the card 1106 and thebroadcast network 1108. The session 1120 a illustrates a session managedby the card 1106 using the network capabilities of the host device 1110.In this example, the card 1106 transmits data for transmission through anetwork connected to the host device 1104, and after receiving the data,the host device 1104 transmits the data to the network 802. In responseto receiving data from the network 1102, the host device 1104 mayautomatically transmit the received data to the card 1106. In someimplementations, the card 1106 may transmit a request for a devicesignature to the host device 1104 as illustrated in session 1120 b. Forexample, the card 1106 may request the device signature during abootstrapping process. The session 1120 c illustrates that a user maysubmit commands to the card 1106 through the interface of the hostdevice 1104. For example, the user may request that the card display theuser's transaction history through the interface of the host device1104.

In some implementations, the card 1106 may receive a command to activateor deactivate the antenna through the host device 1104 as illustrated insession 1120 d. For example, a service provider may identify irregulartransactions and transmit a command through the network 1102 todeactivate the card 1106. The card 1106 may authorize a user byrequesting a user-id and password using the host device 1104. Asillustrated in session 1120 e, the user may submit a user-id andpassword to the card 1106 using the interface of the host device 1104,and in response to an evaluation of the submitted user-id and password,the card 1106 may present through the host device 1104 an indicationthat the user verification is successful or has failed. In someimplementations, a user and/or service provider may request atransaction history of the card 1106 as illustrated in session 1120 f.For example, a service provider may transmit a request for thetransaction history through the network 1102 connected to the hostdevice 1104, and in response to at last in the request, the card 1106may transmit the transaction history to the service provider using thenetwork 1102 connected to the host device 1104. In some implementations,the user may present offline Web pages stored in the card 1106 asillustrated in session 1120. For example, the card 1106 may receive arequest to present an offline Web page from the user using the hostdevice 1104 and present the offline page using the URL in the request.In some implementations, content data stored in the memory of the card1106 or available via live reception of streaming content may bepresented through, for example, the host device 1104 as illustrated insession 1120 h. For example, the user may request specific informationassociated with the Electronic Service Guide and the card 1106 mayretrieve the data and present the data to the user using the host device1104. In addition, the user may write data to the memory in the card1106 as illustrated in session 1120 i. For example, the user may setuptimers for the Personal Video Recorder application on the card 1106 andthe card 1106 may indicate the success and failure of the timer setup

In regards to session between the card 1106 and the terminal, the flow1100 illustrates the personalization session 1120 k and the transactionsession 1120 l. In regards to personalization, a service provider maypersonalize a card 1106 with user credentials, user applications, Webpages, and/or other information as illustrated in session 1120 k. Forexample, the broadcast network 1108 may transmit a provisioning requestto the card 1106 including associated data. The protocol translation1118 may translate the personalization request to a form compatible withthe card 1106. In response to at least the request, the CPU 1112transmit an indication whether the personalization was a success or notusing the protocol translation 1118. Prior to the a broadcast sessionbeginning live reception, the broadcast network 1108 may submit asubscription verification challenge to the card 1106 as illustrated insession 1120 l. In this case, the card 1106 may identify a receiversignature of the receiver 1118, present associated data to the userthrough the host device 1104, and transmit the signature to thebroadcast network 1108 using the protocol translation 1118.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 1200 for managingthe Electronic Service Guide application. In general, an intelligentcard may receive ESG data from the broadcast network and display it tothe user in response to at least an event. Many of the steps in thisflowchart may take place simultaneously and/or in different orders asshown.

Method 1200 begins at step 1202 where ESG data currently stored isidentified. For example, the service card 104 may receive ESG data fromthe broadcast network or the cellular network such as channel lineup,program listing, program information and program ratings. At step 1204,previously downloaded ESG content is identified. In the example, theservice card 104 may identify content previously downloaded from thecontent provider to the local memory in the card 104. In someimplementations, the service card 104 may identify one or more aspectsof memory such as file names, file sizes, dates, and/or other aspects.If the previously-downloaded content matches the current content atdecisional step 1206, then execution ends. If the previously-downloadedcontent does not match the current content, then, at step 1208, at leasta portion of the locally-stored content is automatically updated in thelocal memory. As for the example, the service card 104 may only downloadcontent identified as new content or content that was previously notdownloaded. In downloading the content, the service card 104 maysubstantially updates local-stored ESG content according to the latestavailable ESG from the service provider

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 1300 for managingthe Personal Video Recorder application. In general, an intelligent cardmay automatically receive data from the broadcast network and record itto the memory (if space is available) in response to at least an event(timer). Many of the steps in this flowchart may take placesimultaneously and/or in different orders as shown.

Method 1300 begins at step 1302 where a timer event triggers thebeginning of broadcast reception. For example, the service card 104 mayautomatically tune the antenna to the channel corresponding to theprogram that the user has setup to record as associated with the timer.At step 1304, available memory space is identified. In the example, theservice card 104 may identify free local memory in the card 104. If theavailable memory is below a certain threshold (configured by the serviceprovider) at decisional step 1306, then execution ends. If availablememory is above a certain threshold, then, at step 1308, broadcastreception is started and content is automatically recorded in the localmemory in a newly created program data file. After a specified size ofprogram data is recorded, available memory is checked again and theprocess is repeated by appending to the program data file until eitherthe program ends or the available memory falls below the threshold. Oncethe program ends, the program data file is finalized and given a uniqueidentifier so that it can be accessed for viewing.

A number of embodiments of the invention have been described.Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the followingclaims.

1. A cover for a consumer device, comprising: side surfaces configuredto be adjacent at least a portion one or more side surfaces of theconsumer device; a rear surface configured to be adjacent at least aportion of a rear surface of the consumer device and connected to theside surfaces, the side surfaces and the rear surface form an openingthat receives at least a portion of the consumer device, a first portionof at least one of the surfaces includes a connector for connecting to aport of the consumer device; the connector that includes a firstinterface that connects to the port of the consumer device and secondinterface that substantially duplicates an original port of the consumerdevice; a physical interface included in at least one of the surfacesthat receives memory devices external to the consumer device; a circuitintegrated within at least one of the surfaces and that connects thephysical interface to the connector; and a broadcast service cardconnected to the physical interface and that receives broadcast contentindependent of the consumer device.
 2. The cover of claim 1, wherein thephysical interface that receives an external memory device comprises amicroSecureDigital (microSD) slot.
 3. The cover of claim 1, the circuitfurther comprising a conversion module that converts signals between aform compatible with the broadband service card and a form compatiblewith the consumer device.
 4. The cover of claim 3, wherein theconversion module converts between a SD signal and a Universal SerialBus (USB) signal.
 5. The cover of claim 1, the consumer devicecomprising an iPhone, the connector comprising an iDock connector. 6.The cover of claim 1, wherein one or more of the side surfaces aresubstantially arcuate to substantially maintain a shape and dimensionsof the consumer device.
 7. The cover of claim 1, wherein the broadbandservice card comprises: a communication module that wirelessly receivesbroadcast signals encoding content; memory that stores user informationused to decrypt the encoded content independent of the mobile hostdevice, the stored information associated with a content provider; and aservice module that decrypts the encoded content in response to at leastan event and presents the content through the GUI of the mobile hostdevice.
 8. The service card of claim 1, the broadcast signals compriseat least one of satellite broadcast signals, terrestrial broadcastsignals, or IP broadcast signals.
 9. The service card of claim 1,wherein the service module comprises an operating system with a runtimeenvironment that executes a locally-stored broadcast application forreceiving the content independent of the mobile host device.
 10. Theservice card of claim 1, wherein a user-interface module that presentsinformation associated with receiving the content through the GUI of themobile host device.
 11. The service card of claim 6, wherein theuser-interface module further presents a request for user identificationincluding at least one of a Personal Identification Number (PIN), userID and password, or biometric signature through the GUI of the mobilehost device, the service module further verifies the submitted useridentification with user identification locally stored in the securememory prior to accessing foreign services.
 12. The service card ofclaim 1, wherein the service module selectively switches a broadcastreceiver between an activate state and an inactivate state in responseto at least an event.
 13. The service card of claim 8, wherein theswitching event includes a selection through a GUI of the mobile hostdevice.
 14. The service card of claim 1, wherein the service modulefurther comprises a protocol translation module that translates signalsfrom broadcast content to content processable by the mobile host device.15. The service card of claim 1, further comprising an authenticationmodule that authenticates at least one of a network of the mobile hostdevice, the mobile host device, or a user.
 16. The service card of claim1, wherein the service card is initialized in response to at leastinsertion in the port of the mobile host device.
 17. The service card ofclaim 1, further comprising an activation module that activates theservice card in response to at least a user request or an initialinsertion into the mobile host device.
 18. The service card of claim 15,wherein the service card is activated based, at least in part, on a usermanually entering an activation code through the GUI of the mobile hostdevice.
 19. The service card of claim 1, wherein the service cardpresents the content through the GUI independent of loading a driveronto the mobile host device.
 20. The service card of claim 1, whereinthe service card emulates a set-top box when receiving broadcastsignals.
 21. The service card of claim 1, further comprising a powermodule that receives power from the mobile host device.
 22. The servicecard of claim 1, wherein an enterprise at least associated with thecontent provider uploads personalization data prior to activation,wherein the personalization data includes the user information and abroadcast application.
 23. The service card of claim 18, the servicemodule further operable to update the personalization data afteractivation in response to at least one of a wireless signal includingsecure update instructions or a wired signal through a client connectedto the service card.
 24. A method, comprising: enclosing at least aportion of a consumer host device using a cover; physically interfacinga port of the consumer host device using the cover; wirelessly receivingbroadcast signals encoding content; storing user information used todecrypt the encoded content independent of the mobile host device, thestored information associated with a content provider; and decryptingthe encoded content in response to at least an event; and presenting thecontent through the GUI of the mobile host device.
 25. The method ofclaim 24, the broadcast signals comprise at least one of satellitebroadcast signals, terrestrial broadcast signals, or IP broadcastsignals.
 26. The method of claim 24, further comprising executing alocally-stored broadcast application for receiving the contentindependent of the mobile host device.
 27. The method of claim 24,wherein a user-interface module that presents information associatedwith receiving the content through the GUI of the mobile host device.28. A system, comprising: a means for enclosing at least a portion of aconsumer host device using a cover; a means for physically interfacing aport of the consumer host device using the cover; a means for wirelesslyreceiving broadcast signals encoding content; a means for storing userinformation used to decrypt the encoded content independent of themobile host device, the stored information associated with a contentprovider; a means for decrypting the encoded content in response to atleast an event; and a means for presenting the content through the GUIof the mobile host device.